At Fundamentals Physiotherapy & Wellness Clinic in Oshawa, we know every child develops at their own pace. Our pediatric physiotherapy program helps children improve movement, coordination, balance, and strength through fun, play-based sessions that build confidence and support healthy growth.
Whether your child is recovering from an injury, meeting new milestones, or wants to move more confidently, our team is here to help them thrive in daily life, play, and sport.
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What Is Pediatric Physiotherapy?
Pediatric physiotherapy is specialized care for infants, toddlers, children, and teens. It focuses on helping children develop strong, coordinated movement patterns and confidence in their bodies.
Therapy benefits often include:
- Improving gross and fine motor skills
- Building muscle strength and joint stability
- Enhancing balance, coordination, and posture
- Supporting developmental milestones
- Encouraging independence through movement
At Fundamentals Physiotherapy, children’s sessions are play-based and evidence-informed, so treatment feels fun and motivating. Every care plan is customized for your child’s age, abilities, and goals.
Key Developmental Milestones
Parents often ask, “What should my child be able to do at this age?” While every child develops differently, these general gross motor milestones can help you track progress:
| Age Range | Typical Milestones |
|---|---|
| 0–6 months | Holds head steady, rolls from tummy to back, pushes up on arms |
| 6–12 months | Sits without support, crawls, pulls to stand, may take first steps |
| 12–18 months | Walks independently, begins running, climbs stairs with support |
| 2–3 years | Kicks a ball, jumps with both feet, climbs playground equipment |
| 3–5 years | Hops on one foot, catches a ball, rides a tricycle |
| 5–12 years | Refines running, jumping, throwing, balance; participates in sports |
If your child is not meeting certain milestones, pediatric physiotherapy can help identify and address underlying challenges early on.
What Is Play-Based Therapy?
For children, play is the best kind of therapy. Using fun, functional activities, our physiotherapists help kids build motor skills, coordination, and endurance without feeling like they’re doing “exercises.”
Some examples of play-based activities include:
- Obstacle courses
- Animal walks (bear, crab, frog hops)
- Catching, throwing, or kicking games
- Balance challenges using cushions or beams
Evidence shows that playful, functional therapy improves motivation, strength, and skill development more effectively than repetitive drills.
Safe Home Activities for Every Age
You can continue supporting your child’s development safely at home with age-appropriate activities:
Infants: Tummy time, reaching for toys, supported sitting
Toddlers: Walking practice, climbing stairs with support, soft obstacle courses
Preschoolers: Hopping games, catching soft balls, animal walks
School-aged kids: Hopscotch, kids’ yoga, backyard sports, playground challenges
Always consult your physiotherapist before introducing new exercises if your child has an injury or medical condition.
Common Conditions Pediatric Physiotherapy Helps Treat
Our physiotherapists support children with a wide range of needs, including:
- Hypermobility / Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS): Improves stability, strength, and joint control
- Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD/Dyspraxia): Builds motor planning and confidence
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Supports balance, coordination, and participation in play
- Postural or musculoskeletal issues: Addresses scoliosis, toe walking, flat feet, or poor posture
- Sports injuries: Rehabilitation for sprains, strains, or overuse injuries
- Developmental delays: Guidance for walking, running, jumping, or coordination challenges
Every program combines clinic-based therapy and home strategies to help your child move safely and confidently in all environments.
Why Choose Fundamentals Physiotherapy in Oshawa?
Parents choose our clinic because we provide:
- Individualized care: Plans tailored to your child’s unique abilities and goals
- Flexible scheduling: Evenings and weekends available for busy families
- Insurance convenience: Direct billing to most extended health plans
- Evidence-based methods: Backed by current pediatric research
- Fun, child-centred sessions: Play-based exercises that kids actually enjoy
Our goal is to make therapy a positive, empowering experience that builds lifelong movement confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When should I see a pediatric physiotherapist?
If your child has delays in motor skills, frequent falls, poor balance, or difficulty with sports or play, a physiotherapy assessment can help.
Is pediatric physiotherapy painful?
No. Treatment is gentle, safe, and play-focused. Exercises are designed to be fun while helping your child move better and feel stronger.
How often should my child attend?
Frequency depends on their goals. Some children benefit from weekly sessions, while others need short-term or periodic visits.
Can we do exercises at home?
Absolutely. Home programs are a key part of treatment. We’ll guide you through safe, age-appropriate activities to continue progress between sessions.
What age can children start physiotherapy?
From infancy through adolescence. Early intervention is highly effective and helps children meet milestones sooner.
Take the Next Step
Supporting your child’s growth doesn’t have to be stressful. Pediatric physiotherapy can help them move confidently, participate in sports and play, and enjoy everyday activities.
📞 Call 905-576-5065 or
💻 Book online at fundamentalsphysio.ca/contact
At Fundamentals Physiotherapy & Wellness Clinic in Oshawa, we help children build strength, balance, and confidence—one playful step at a time.
